Meskel Festival Tours In Addis Ababa
Active
9h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Meskel(The Finding Of The True Cross) Festival (27 September)
Meskel (27 September) commemorates the alleged 4th century discovery of the True Cross on which Jesus was crucified.
The largest ceremony takes place in Addis Ababa’s Meskel Square, where hundreds of thousands of people gather to watch the colorfully dressed priests chant, pray and dance.
On This One Day Tours You Will
• The Witness the ancient Remarkable Meskel Festival Celebration In Addis Ababa at Meskel Square
• Be Wondered On The Style Of Celebration Of The Festivals By Deacons ,Priests ,Bishops & The Pilgrimage
• Enjoy the magnificent view of Addis Ababa from the top of MNT Entoto
• See the shopping opportunity of holidays in the markets for the festivals
• Visit the vibrant city of Addis Ababa.
• Meet your oldest ancestor Lucy at the National Museum in Addis Ababa.
• Try the varied Ethiopian cuisine at 2000 Habesha after your tours
• Attend an Ethiopian coffee ceremony after your tours
Available options
Book Your Meskel Festivals
City Tours : Addis Ababa Full Day City Tours With National Museums , Entoto MNT, Church Of Holly Trinity ,Merkato , <br/>Easy <br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>All Meals<br/>Addis Ababa<br/>Latest Van<br/>Pickup included
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Lunch
Dinner
Air-conditioned vehicle
VIP ENTRANCE FEE FOR THE FESTIVALS
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel. Refresh and begin your sightseeing of Addis with a drive up to mount Entoto for a panoramic view of Addis. Descend down and drive to National museum where you will have a chance to spot the oldest hominids of ‘Lucy’ fossil.
2
Merkato which is the largest outdoor market in the entire Africa.
3
Stop 3
Visit and proceed to the Holy Trinity built during the WWII. Then proceed to Meskel Square to attain the most colorful celebration Meskel. The Ge’ez word Meskel literally means Cross in which the celebration day named after. Meskel is the finding of the True Cross. It is celebrated among Christians in Ethiopia. It is marked by burning bone fire and also by religious hymn and different shows organized by youngsters from church school. In the evening attend a folkloric dinner where you will have a chance to taste several national dishes and watch dances of the various ethnic groups of Ethiopia. The traditional coffee ceremony will also be served. Later you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
What's not included
ACCOMMODATION AND PERSONAL EXPENSES
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
CMN
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is a vibrant and historically rich city nestled in the highlands of the Horn of Africa. Known as the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country, it offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Ethiopian culture.
Top Attractions
Entoto Mountain
A scenic mountain offering panoramic views of Addis Ababa and the surrounding highlands. It's a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (some attractions may have entry fees)
Addis Ababa Museum
A museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Ethiopia, including artifacts from the ancient kingdom of Aksum and the medieval Solomonic dynasty.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 100 ETB or 3 USD)
Mercato
One of the largest open-air markets in Africa, offering a vast array of goods, from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and livestock.
Market
Half day
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
St. George's Cathedral
A historic cathedral built in the 19th century, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Doro Wat
A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, onions, and hard-boiled eggs.
Main Dish
Contains meat and spices
Injera
A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, used as both a utensil and a base for other dishes.
Staple
Vegan
Tibs
Sautéed cubes of meat, often served with vegetables and spices.
Main Dish
Contains meat and spices
Shiro
A chickpea or lentil-based stew, often spiced with berbere or mitmita.
Stew
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Entoto Mountain
Boating in Lake Bishoftu
Coffee ceremony
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional music and dance performances
N/A
Participating in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony
Best Time to Visit
October to June
This period offers the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
12°C to 26°C (54°F to 79°F)
54°F to 79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Amharic
- Widely spoken: English, Oromo
- English: Moderately spoken in urban areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Addis Ababa is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Addis Ababa Bole International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By bus
Addis Ababa Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but can be crowded. Tickets are purchased on board.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ride
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Piazza District
Bole District
Mercato District
Day trips
Debre Berhan
130 km (80 miles) from Addis Ababa • Full day
A historic town known for its beautiful church and traditional Ethiopian architecture.
Lake Bishoftu
40 km (25 miles) from Addis Ababa • Half day to full day
A series of volcanic lakes known for their scenic beauty and birdlife.
Festivals
Timket (Epiphany) • January 19
Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) • September 27
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Amharic to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide for a more authentic and insightful experience, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites
- Try traditional Ethiopian coffee and participate in a coffee ceremony for a unique cultural experience
- Bargain politely when shopping in markets, as it is a common practice
- Be patient and flexible, as punctuality and schedules can be more relaxed in Ethiopia
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
